Latest Treatment Options for Pancreatic Cancer

Being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer may leave you feeling surprised, scared, or unsure of what comes next. However, recent advances in pancreatic cancer treatment now provide some of the most effective options to date. As you explore your options, it’s important to understand what a diagnosis means and what each journey may involve.

What is pancreatic cancer?

Pancreatic cancer begins in the cells of the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach that helps the body digest food and manage blood sugar levels. When these cells start to grow out of control, they can form tumors that affect how the pancreas functions.

Early signs of pancreatic cancer can be difficult to identify and may result in a later-stage diagnosis. Despite its challenging diagnosis, physicians are actively researching ways to advance pancreatic cancer treatment and continue to offer treatment options to help slow tumor growth, relieve symptoms and improve your quality of life.

What pancreatic cancer treatments are available?

No two pancreatic cancer journeys are exactly alike. Your treatment plan will depend on your overall health, the stage of the cancer and your preferences.

Specialists currently offer several pancreatic cancer treatment options:

• Whipple surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Pancreatic cancer surgery

What is a Whipple procedure?

The Whipple procedure is a complex surgery used to remove pancreatic tumors and surrounding tissues when cancer is caught early.

Before the operation, your surgeon may perform a laparoscopy, a procedure using small incisions, to look for signs that the cancer has spread or to collect biopsies. If the tumor is localized and fully removable, the surgeon may remove part of your pancreas, portions of the small intestine, nearby tissues, and sometimes part of the stomach.

Your digestive tract will be reconnected to regain your digestive function. If you undergo Whipple surgery successfully, it can provide you with more time and potentially lead to a cure. 

What is pancreatic chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is a commonly used treatment for pancreatic cancer, using powerful medications to target and destroy cancer cells.

There are different ways chemotherapy can be given, and your care team will work with you to decide which option works best for your body and long-term treatment plan: 

• Oral chemotherapy is taken as a pill or capsule at home and is often more convenient for some patients.
• Intravenous (IV) chemotherapy is delivered directly into a vein through an IV line or port, usually in a hospital or infusion center.
• Injection chemotherapy is given as a shot into a muscle, under the skin, or directly into a specific area of the body.

Your doctor may recommend a single type of chemotherapy or a combination of several drugs to work together and fight cancer cells.

While chemotherapy is a common treatment option for cancer, its impact on your healthy cells may result in several symptoms, including:

• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Low blood counts
• Hair loss
• Vomiting
• Skin rash
• Pain in your hands and feet

Your care team will likely pair chemotherapy with supportive care to help you stay strong and more comfortable.

What is pancreatic cancer surgery?

While the Whipple procedure is a well-known surgery for pancreatic cancer, it’s not your only surgical option. Depending on the tumor’s location and how far the cancer has spread, your care team may recommend a different type of surgery designed to remove the cancer while protecting as much healthy tissue as possible:

• Distal pancreatectomy removes the tail or body of the pancreas and, in some cases, the spleen.
• Total pancreatectomy involves the removal of the entire pancreas and surrounding tissues. Since the pancreas controls blood sugar and produces digestive enzymes, this surgery requires lifelong insulin and enzyme support.

After surgery, you’ll spend several days in the hospital to recover as your care team helps you manage digestion, nutrition and blood sugar.

What are the recent advances in pancreatic cancer treatment?

Researchers and doctors are making exciting progress in pancreatic cancer treatment, offering more options for extended survival and potential cure. These recent advances in treatment include:

• Targeted therapy, which attacks cancer cells with specific genetic changes. 
• Immunotherapy, which helps your body’s immune system recognize and fight cancer.
• Clinical trials, which provides access to new and promising treatments that are still being researched and developed.

Talk with your oncologist to see if these options could supportyour recovery. How to support well-being during pancreatic cancer treatment Healing often goes beyond targeted treatments; you need to care for the whole you. To support your overall well-being throughout diagnosis and treatment, your care team may connect you to several resources such as:

• Nutrition counseling to help you maintain strength.
• Pain management to help keep you comfortable.
• Support groups and counseling to help you connect with others and cope with uncertain times.

A pancreatic cancer diagnosis can be challenging to navigate, but with several paths for treatment, you can find a care plan that fits your personalized needs and lifestyle. Your health deserves the best care possible, and with advanced treatment options, emerging research, and a compassionate care team by your side, you can feel more confident in the journey ahead.

Schedule a consultation with a cancer care specialist.